A self-described “catharsis for his depression”, “DarkSummer,” the EP by London-based Albanian producer Gabriel Ryder is electronic bliss. The EP starts with “Ghost Around”, which is beautiful and it’s only uphill from there, each song being better than the last.

Already coming with a rising production pedigree, Ryder has produced for Lowkey, Mai Khalil, Awate, and Davina Oriakhi and his music has been talked about by the likes of Earmilk and SoulBounce, so it’s no surprise that “DarkSummer” is a smash.

Ryder began recording the psychedelic EP a few summers ago and it is some of the most eccentric music to come out of the UK in 2018. Not only is “DarkSummer” an emotional electronic album, but it experimentally mixes in elements of hip-hop, grime, R&B, soul, jazz, and classical music. These all come together to create a visceral experience for the listener.

If you’re a fan of Flying Lotus, Ta-Ku, Mndsgn, or J Dilla, you will more than enjoy Gabriel Ryder’s “DarkSummer”, a fantastic triumph of an EP. Check it out!